EXHIBIT 23.1

            CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 333-20905) pertaining to the All * AmerUs Savings and Retirement Plan of
AmerUs Group Co. of our report dated May 2, 2005, with respect to the financial
statements and schedule of the All * AmerUs Savings and Retirement Plan included
in this Annual Report (Form 11-K) for the year ended December 31, 2004.

                                              /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Des Moines, Iowa
June 28, 2005